Dear teenage boys

The second is that if I ask you to buy me tampons, trust me, you are my last option, do not look at me with the horror of being sent to hell.

The third is that it is not embarrassing to stand in the feminine hygiene isle. Every woman or girl who sees you down there instantly has a high level of respect for you, instantly you have so many brownie points.

The fourth is that it is not disgusting, and telling me my natural body functions are disgusting will most definitely upset me. I know it’s kind of gross, but it is natural, and I have to deal with it, so please, don’t point it out. Buy me chocolate instead.

The FIFTH thing I want you to understand is when I am on my period is not the only time I will ever be grouchy. For example, when you’re being an idiot, I will react to you like you’re an idiot, that does not mean I am bleeding from my vagina. Thank you.

The sixth thing is don’t ask me if I’m on my period purely to make fun of me. I am in pain, I feel ill, I have to keep doing everything I would normally do, and pretend I am fine. Do not, ever, make fun of me, I am tough as hell.

The seventh thing, and the final thing, is treating it as taboo will not make the world a better place. I know your father doesn’t talk about it, I know your mother doesn’t talk about it. I know that most likely your friends dodge the subject. Don’t give in. If you are open, we will be open. If you ask a question, we will answer it. Don’t feel awkward because you don’t understand the bodily functions of a woman, ask her, it’s okay.

Nobody should feel awkward buying tampons or pads or anything, it’s as essential as tissues when you have a cold. We shouldn’t have to be embarrassed by it, and neither should you.